When was the last time you thought about the safety and security of your home? I have not written about this issue for some time – so, if it has been a while, then right now is probably a good time to start thinking about it.
Consider whether you do any of the points below. If not, it might be a good time to start implementing these simple precautions today:
Store gas safely. If you keep a propane tank for your gas grill or filled gasoline cans on hand, do not store them inside your home. Put them in a safe and secure place where children cannot access them.
Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. And always take note of the last time you inspected them. Check the batteries and ensure that they are not collecting lint and dust. If you can, integrate them, so that if one goes off in the kitchen, the detectors throughout the house also are triggered. Set a note in your calendar to replace the batteries every 6 months.
Upgrade to a mailbox with a lock. This will ensure that mail with sensitive information won’t just sit outside for the taking.
Ensure that extension cords used outside are made specifically for outdoor appliances. Others can cause fires or trip, causing other issues.
Avoid leaving notes on your front door. Don’t alert intruders to the fact that you won’t be home. This is the case even if you are expecting a package.
Prepare for power outages. If you experience a power outage, the food in the freezer should last for up to 48 hours. With hurricane season upon us, consider getting a generator and always stock up on nonperishable food.
Place oily rags outside to dry. Then, store these rags in a metal can with a secure lid.
Never charge a non-rechargeable battery. This could make it explode.
Add landscaping around windows. To dissuade burglars from getting into windows, plant thorny shrubs and bushes.
Publicize your home security system. Place the company’s decals and signs around your home and yard. Even if you don’t have any alarm, buy and place signs anyway to dissuade burglars.
Keep debris and grass trimmings off the driveway. This demonstrates that someone is home.
Set your home phone’s ringer on mute whenever you go on vacation. If a burglar is staking out your home, your ringing phone won’t be a dead giveaway.
Place a hold on your mail and newspaper before you travel. Don’t let it pile up. Best practice, get a post office box.
Ask a friend or neighbor to park their car in your driveway while you are away. This way, a burglar will always think someone is home.
Avoid posting on social media when you are out of town. Burglars often search social media sites to see who in the neighborhood is away from home.
Again, with hurricane season upon us and the fact that you might have to vacate your home, these safety measures should be put in place NOW.
- Zona Horton has been successfully selling Real Estate in South Florida for over 30 years. She works for the international Keller Williams family of companies and serves Davie, Cooper City and surrounding cities. Call her for all your Real Estate needs. For information, visit www.ZonaHorton.com or send an email to [email protected].